UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed a meeting of approximately 30 Western nations, asserting that they share an “unbreakable pledge” to support Ukraine, backed by the United States. He urged these nations to encourage Russia to conclude its ongoing military actions in Ukraine, which have persisted for over 40 months. Starmer co-chaired this meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, emphasizing concerns about the trustworthiness of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who continues to delay peace negotiations while the war continues.
Concerns about the viability of a peace agreement have grown following a recent meeting between Putin and former US President Donald Trump in Alaska. Trump has expressed optimism about reaching a resolution, stating that he plans to communicate with members of the “Coalition of the Willing” after the Paris summit. According to French officials, it is vital for European partners that any military assurances for Ukraine include American support.
Trump has suggested that the US could potentially provide air support, though details on this remain vague. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the need for clarity on what the coalition could offer and what the US might provide, with air support possibly involving defense and intelligence capabilities. The Élysée Palace stated that security guarantees would aim to enhance Ukraine’s military strength, provide supportive forces, and maintain US backing.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported “signals” indicating American support before the summit, where US special envoy Steve Witkoff was expected to meet him in Paris. Amid these developments, Putin claimed that there are possible options for ensuring Ukraine’s security if the conflict ceases. However, Russia has firmly opposed the deployment of Western troops in Ukraine, asserting its right to act as one of the security guarantors, a suggestion that Ukraine and its allies have dismissed.
Additionally, tensions remain as Russia warns of military resolutions in the absence of a peace deal, while Ukraine’s allies advocate for an initial ceasefire agreement. A source from the Élysée noted a lack of indication from Russia that it intends to engage in a ceasefire as part of a peace accord.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czxwl15w2qko?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss